Project outline

The Kingsway to the Sea project aims to regenerate the underused and run-down facilities and green spaces on the seafront in West Hove.

As well as improving the area for the community, it will:

  • provide an attractive space for visitors of all ages
  • protect and enhance the green spaces in the area, improving biodiversity.
  • provide updated leisure and sports facilities

These are all relevant to the needs and aspirations of residents living and working in a densely populated part of the city.

The Planning Committee granted planning permission in December 2022. 

The plan

Kingsway to the Sea features a new park stretching from Hove Lagoon to the King Alfred Leisure Centre.

A new, accessible route will run through the park which means people won't need to go onto Kingsway or the Esplanade.

The park will have activity and relaxation spaces, with opportunities for both sport and leisure, including new gardens as oasis areas. The park was designed with a target to deliver 20% Biodiversity Net Gain compared to the existing site.

Improving sports and leisure facilities

A new outdoor sports hub next to the bowling greens will include new public toilets, changing rooms and a café. It will be the new home for Hove & Kingsway Bowls Club. There will also be a clubhouse which will make it easier for players and spectators to get to the bowling greens.

We’ll refurbish the public toilets at the Big Beach Café, and the green space will be improved to create a family area.

We’ll keep the existing areas for tennis, bowls and croquet and add areas for paddle tennis and sand sports, such as volleyball and tennis. There will also be wheeled sports areas including a skateboard plaza, a pump track for biking, and a rollerblading and skating area.  

How we’re increasing accessibility

We’ll make significant accessibility improvements for people with mobility issues. We’ll add inclined ramps and new stairs throughout the park, offering a choice of routes for everyone.

The new public toilets in the Outdoor Sports Hub will include accessible toilets and a Changing Places facility. Additional accessible toilet facilities are proposed at Hove Lagoon and the Tennis Pavilion.

The plans are also available in video form: